Followed the Old Dogs advice and went to Black Mountain Bicycles after seeing on their website that they were doing 20% off leftover 2010's and 30% off 2009's. They had a good deal on a 2009 Stumpjumper FSR Elite for $2169. I loved the ride but had to walk away and think about it before dropping that much money plus tax.

Fast forward four hours......

Looking on Craigslist at 3:30 I see the same bike listed for $1500, and it is an XL... Just what I need. Call the guy up, go by and look, and the bike is brand new, maybe ridden a couple of times. I am ecstatic to say the least. I paid the man and brought it home. Now all I Need is a fork pump so I can adjust the pressure for my weight and I am off to the trails.

A big thanks to Doug at NOTB and Bryan at BMB for taking the time to work with me and explain the benefits of various components. I'm sorry I didn't buy a bike from you guys but you will get the rest of my business, I assure you of that.

Pictures will be next once I get her out on the trails. Thanks to all of you who gave me advice.

Jim